Pro: She's pretty visible this year in both this and Tom Hooper's "Les Miserables," while also sparkling as a recent Oscar host who seems destined for her first nod sooner or later. Meanwhile, the decision of Warner Bros. to campaign her for a lead in Christopher Nolan's 'Dark Knight' denouement keeps her categories straight in people's minds. And never underestimate a box office player when it has critical approval.

Con: Nevertheless, "The Dark Knight Rises" was a step down from "The Dark Knight" in the minds of many. And the one acting nomination to come from the series -- Heath Ledger in the latter, who won the award posthumously -- has left massive shoes to fill for any comic book movie actor or actress looking to get a leg up in the Oscar race.

- Kristopher Tapley